Crime by the sea: Herne Bay Literary Festival 2026
The town’s first-ever literary festival welcomes bestselling authors
This September, Herne Bay will host its first-ever literary festival, bringing renowned authors, lively discussions and literary events to venues across the town.
Presented by The Herne Bay Literary Festival and The Little Green Bookshop, Crime by the Sea takes place on 12th-13th September 2026, celebrating crime, mystery and thriller-writing through a carefully curated weekend programme.
The festival will welcome some of the UK’s most acclaimed writers, including Sophie Hannah, internationally-bestselling crime novelist and continuation author of Agatha Christie's Poirot series; Jess Kidd, award-winning author of richly atmospheric mysteries; Ian Moore, creator of the much-loved Follet Valley cosy crime series; Louise Doughty, bestselling author of Apple Tree Yard and Platform Seven; Cathy Rentzenbrink, author of the forthcoming The Agatha Christie Cure; Julie Wassmer, creator of the Whitstable Pearl mysteries; and Lucy Strange, whose new novel Murder on a Midsummer Night launches the Mulberry Hill Murders series.
Festival events include:
Murder, Mischief & Mayhem
A live crime-fiction panel featuring Sophie Hannah, Jess Kidd and Ian Moore, hosted by Lauren Crockford. Exploring the many forms of crime-writing, from psychological suspense and historical mystery to cosy crime and dark humour.
Louise Doughty in Conversation with Simon Savidge
An afternoon with the bestselling author of Apple Tree Yard, Platform Seven and A Bird in Winter discussing suspense, storytelling and a career spanning literary and commercial fiction.
The Agatha Christie Cure: Cathy Rentzenbrink in Conversation
Bestselling author Cathy Rentzenbrink discusses her new book, The Agatha Christie Cure, exploring reading, resilience and the enduring appeal of the Queen of Crime.
Crime by the Sea Quiz Night
Hosted by Julie Wassmer, creator of the Whitstable Pearl series, this special festival quiz promises mystery, misdirection and plenty of literary sleuthing.
Lucy Strange: Murder on a Midsummer Night
A special event celebrating the launch of the first Mulberry Hill Murders novel from one of Britain’s most beloved storytellers.
Taking place across a range of independent venues in Herne Bay, the festival aims to bring readers, writers and visitors together while showcasing the town’s growing cultural offer.
Tickets: thelittlegreenbookshop.com
